Vehicle Maintenance Checklist: What to Do When

At Joe Bowman Chevrolet, we know that regular maintenance is crucial to the long life of your vehicle. The old saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is certainly true.

Regular vehicle maintenance helps you to avoid major repair costs and keeps you safe on the road. But how do you know what to do and when?

We break it down for you.

Signs You Need Vehicle Maintenance Now

Even if you regularly service your car, an unexpected problem is bound to come up now and then.

The “check engine” light appears when the system discovers a problem. There’s no reason to panic but it does warrant a visit to your mechanic as soon as possible.

If a taillight or headlight fuse blows or goes out, these must be replaced immediately. Not only is it unsafe, but you could also get a traffic ticket.

When your system alerts you that your tire pressure is down, it’s time to inflate them. Low tire pressure can create unsafe driving conditions.

Other signs there could be a problem are:

• Lack of acceleration-If the pep is suddenly gone when you step on the gas, it’s time for an engine tune-up.

• Fuel efficiency-If gas mileage takes a dip, it could be due to leaky fuel injectors or bad sensors.

• Braking-Squeaking, scraping, or a “soft’ brake pedal are all signs that the safety of your brake system has been compromised.

• Wonky shifting-Automatic transmissions should shift gears smoothly. If your vehicle hard shifts or lurches, it could mean a transmission malfunction.

• Vibration-If your car shakes when you start it, or when it turns or stops, it’s time to see your mechanic.

• Difficulty starting, stalling-If your car won’t start or it stalls, it can compromise your safety on the road. Time to get it serviced!

These six signs tend to be less obvious, intermittent, or vague. But that doesn’t make them less of a problem. It could be the start of a more significant problem. Don’t delay. Get your vehicle checked pronto!

Every month, be sure to check that your turn signals, brake, and parking lights as well as fog lights work. While it’s easy to notice a burned out headlight, the other lights are not as easily noticed. Do a visual inspection to be sure that everything is in good working order.

When your engine is cool, check oil and coolant levels. If you’re planning a trip, always top off the levels before leaving.

Tires are absolutely essential to safe driving. That’s why a monthly inspection is highly recommended.

Check tire pressure. For tread depth, use a penny. If the top of Lincoln’s head is covered, then you have adequate tread. Otherwise, it’s time to shop for new tires.

Check your windshield wiper reservoir to make sure there is an adequate supply of fluid. You can’t drive safely on the road with a dirty windshield.

90-Day Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Check the oil and filters every three months. Conventional motor oil should be changed about every 3,000 miles. Synthetics can go as long as 10,000 miles.

Are your battery and cables secure? Check for tight connections, corrosion or leaking fluid. The power steering fluid should be checked when the engine is warm

Wiper blades are essential on the road. Inspect them seasonally for signs of wear or damage.

Belts and hoses should be inspected every three months as well. They shouldn’t look glazed, frayed, or cracked. Nor should they have bulges, cracks, or leaks.

6-Month Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Every six months, rotate tires to help extend their life. Tire rotation can also prevent vibration problems. Always check your owner’s manual for your specific rotation requirements.

Wax your vehicle twice a year to protect the paint and prevent rusting. It’s also good to check the exhaust system, your battery, and the chassis lubrication. Let your owner’s manual be your guide for the chassis lubrication.

Yearly Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Once a year, you’ll want to check your air filters. Cabin air filters should be replaced annually, too. However, engine air filters should be checked with each oil change.

It’s wise to inspect the brake system including rotors, brake pads, brake linings and brake fluid on a yearly basis. These critical elements help ensure proper operation of the vehicle.

If you notice a decrease in smooth driving, get your struts and shocks checked by your mechanic.

And lastly, replace your antifreeze/coolant each year. Once your vehicle reaches 60,000 miles have the entire coolant system flushed.

Service Professionals for Regular Vehicle Maintenance

Scheduling regular maintenance is the key to having your vehicle last well beyond the 100,000-mile mark, and it helps to keep you safe on the road.

Trust your vehicle only to qualified technicians! The certified Chevy technicians at Bowman Chevrolet are highly trained and work on all makes and models of vehicles.

Our service pros are there to keep your car, truck, or SUV in tip top condition. Learn more about our service department here.

Joe Bowman Auto Plaza sells Carfax used cars as well as brand new Chevys and GMC vehicles in Harrisonburg, VA.